MUSIC & MANTRa

Come Home to Yourself Through Sacred Music

A few years ago I discovered the power and love of Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion, one of the four major paths to yoga. Bhakti is a method of devotion and union with the Divine/Spirit/Source. It’s the recognition that the Divine is within us and all around us. Bhakti uses the practice of mantra recitation to connect with this direct experience of the Divine. This is why Bhakti yoga is called the ‘path of the heart’.

Bhakti yoga is “A path of yoga emphasizing direct experience of the Divine though mantra, chanting and other devotional practices. The Bhakti movement originated in seventh-century India and espoused the universal nature of spirituality available to all and everyone though direct experience, rejecting traditional divisions of caste and creed.” Girish, 2016

In 2016 I took an intensive Kirtan Academy training with Brenda McMorrow that opened my heart, mind and spirit to the powerful effects of chanting; deep feelings of peace, connection and love. I’ve been writing original melodies to ancient mantras ever since! These mantras call in light, love, healing and transformation and have become an important part of my yoga and meditation practice.

I am honoured to be able to introduce others to Bhakti yoga by hosting Kirtans regularly, singing for other yoga teachers’ classes and special events as well as by offering workshops on music and mantra for those looking to explore the practice a little deeper. I have been blessed to chant at the Toronto Yoga Conference, Peterborough Yoga Festival, London Yogathon, hosting many Kirtans and Sacred Music evenings in London Ontario at North Yoga & Wellness and Shangrila Yoga.

If you are looking for live music to accompany a yoga class or for a special event (i.e. summer solstice, sound healing event, yoga festival…) please be in touch with specifics by clicking the button below.

Mahadevi

Karyn Austin and Rachel McGarry

Mahadevi is a London-based Kirtan band consisting of Karyn Austin and Rachel McGarry. Together we combine modern musical styles with traditional mantras that date back thousands of years. The simplest way to describe Kirtan is as a music meditation, a way to connect with the deepest parts of ourselves. Mahadevi has gained a loyal following by making the ancient tradition of Kirtan (call and response chanting) accessible to all. Check the event sidebar for upcoming dates and locations! We would love to chant with you!

Coming Soon! A DREAM COME TRUE!

I am excited to announce that I’m working on my very first album of Bhakti music: ancient mantras with original melodies! Join me on my journey as it unfolds by following the blog (just add your email at the bottom of this page). Big thanks to all who have given such support and encouragement for me to follow my dreams - the big ones! Much love xo